A Visit to Melaque (San Patricio)
For a change of scenery, you may wander over to Melaque (aka San Patricio), 5km (3 miles) from Barra. Its pace is even more laid back, as though it's stuck in time. A few yachts bob in the harbor, and the palm-lined beach is gorgeous. Restaurants and basic bungalows line the beach. You can walk on the beach from Barra or take one of the frequent local buses from the bus station near the main square in Barra for 5 pesos. The bus is marked MELAQUE. To return to Barra, take the bus marked CIHUATLAN. A taxi between the towns costs 50 pesos each way.
Where to Stay & Eat -- The best hotel in town is Larios (tel. 315/355-8058), at Calle Av. Primavera 60, just a block from the beach. It has 10 rooms that cost between 500 and 700 pesos per night, depending on if there's a kitchen; cash only. Other motels in town are half that price but far less nice. There are a number of rustic palapa restaurants on the beach and farther along the bay at the end of the beach.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
